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Collection online

vase

Object type

Museum number

1904,0217.1

Description

Vase and cover; silver-gilt; with handles; base and lower part of body fluted; centre a plain ground with garlands in relief, applied medallion with inscription on one side and medallion with cupids and chariot on other. A vine scroll in relief at top of cup and laurel wreathes on body and foot.

Date

Production place

Materials

Technique

Dimensions

Height: 46.5 centimetres

Inscriptions

Inscription Type

inscription

Inscription Position

medallion

Inscription Content

To JAMES PERRY As a mark of esteem for his private Worth and of gratitude for his Exertions and for his sufferings in Defence of the Constitution of GREAT BRITAIN . This Cup is presented by his friends. 1st August 1799.

Inscription Type

hallmark

Inscription Position

rim of cover and foot rim of cup

Inscription Content

London hallmarks and date-letter for 1799

Inscription Type

maker's mark

Inscription Content

WH

Inscription Comment

In a rectangular shield. Possibly that of William Holmes, plateworker (Grimwade 3162, entered 1792) or William Hall, plateworker (Grimwade 3163, entered 1795)

Curator's comments

Journalist and political crusader, Perry (1756-1821) was born in Aberdeen and moved to London in 1777, eventually becoming editor of the Morning Chronicle. According to the DNB, this vase was presented to him following his relase from three months in prison for allegedly libelling the House in March 1798.